The Strongest Versions Of Lex Luthor

Key Takeaways

Jesse Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor is eccentric but still effectively manipulates Batman and Superman.
Standard Lex Luthor from DC Comics is known as one of the smartest supervillains globally.
Lex Luthor as Orange Lantern showcases the embodiment of greed, leading to disastrous consequences.

As a longtime fan of DC Comics, I must say, Lex Luthor’s journey from a mere mortal to a god-like figure is nothing short of captivating! Each transformation showcases not just his insatiable ambition and cunning mind, but also the ever-evolving nature of power in the DC Universe.

In the world of DC Comics, Lex Luthor – a brilliant, wealthy, and charismatic individual – demonstrates that relentless determination, intellectual prowess, and unrelenting jealousy can pose a significant threat even to Superman. Known as one of the most formidable villains in DC history, Luthor consistently challenges the iconic hero.

In his own right, Lex stands as an exceptional human, boasting a quick intellect, advanced technology, and a physique honed by rigorous training. Yet, even with such capabilities, he harbors envy towards Superman and yearns to counter the alien menace in order to assert humanity’s dominance. Here are several versions of this suave antagonist, all without facial hair.

5 DCEU Lex

Batman v Superman Luthor

Originates From: Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
Source of Power: Clever Schemes

Among all versions of Lex Luthor presented in comics or films, Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal has received the most criticism. Unlike his other live-action counterparts, Eisenberg’s interpretation of Lex Luthor is not highly respected. This particular version was ridiculed for its peculiar, eccentric representation, featuring a high-pitched voice and mischievous attitude that made him resemble a caricature of the Joker rather than an accurate depiction of Superman’s adversary.

Despite facing numerous criticisms, it couldn’t be denied by some fans that he excelled as a menacing villain in his own universe. Even without the tech or equipment commonly associated with Lex Luthor, this portrayal managed to obtain Kryptonite and devise cunning long-term strategies. These plans allowed him to drive a wedge between Superman and Batman, making them clash rather than work together, thus showcasing his ability to outsmart not only the world’s strongest man but also the greatest detective on Earth.

Through his skillful maneuvers, he successfully provoked a lethal conflict between the two powerful entities, casually fanning the flames of anger that burned between them, all to serve his personal interests.

4 Standard Lex

Luthor Prime

Originates From: Prime Earth
Source of Power: Superior Intelligence

In a common, straightforward manner: Alexander “Lex” Luthor, one of DC Comics’ most renowned supervillains alongside the Joker, is the CEO genius of Lexcorp. He employs his exceptional intelligence, advanced technology, and deep-seated resentment and ego as motivators to challenge Superman.

In many iterations of the DC universe, Lex Luthor is renowned as the world’s most intelligent individual. In the Doomsday Clock narrative, Ozymandias from the Watchmen multiverse invades theirs and proclaims himself as the top intellect in his own realm. Following a discussion between them about Ozymandias’ squid-alien peace plan in his universe, Luthor ridicules him by pointing out all its shortcomings. This exchange demonstrates that even among intellectual heavyweights, Lex Luthor stands out as exceptionally brilliant.

It’s mentioned that Lex Luthor on Prime Earth showcases a genius intellect, falling between the 7th and 9th levels. He boasts an exceptional memory, vast knowledge in various fields (with engineering being his strongest suit), and surprisingly, he can handle himself quite well in hand-to-hand combat if necessary.

3 Injustice Lex

Powersuit Luthor

Originates From: Injustice: Gods Among Us
Source of Power: His Suit

In the universe depicted in “Injustice: Gods Among Us”, Superman is shown as a ruthless despot, which makes sense given his transformation into an unyielding tyrant. Interestingly enough, this alternative reality also presents Lex Luthor in his most noble and heroic light.

In the narrative of “Injustice,” Lex Luthor demonstrates what an individual as brilliant and gifted as him could accomplish if they chose to work for the betterment of humanity rather than exploit it. Instead of pursuing illicit activities, he aligns with the Insurgency to overthrow a Superman who has turned rogue, rescues Harley Quinn from danger, and ultimately gives his fortune to Batman to help rebuild a world post-Regime’s downfall – an act that costs him his life. His selfless sacrifice saved both Metropolis and Gotham City. Prior to the events that led to Superman’s corruption, Lex was close friends with Lois Lane, who later perished, and Superman himself. The tragic occurrences in the story eventually caused Superman to turn evil.

As I gazed upon Lex Luthor’s unique arsenal of moves in the game, it became crystal clear just how formidable this iteration of Lex, along with his power-packed suit, truly was. Many of these moves showcased impressive feats of gravity manipulation, enabling him to pull and hurl opponents at will. Clearly, I wouldn’t want to cross paths with this powerful adversary on the battlefield.

2 Orange Lantern Lex

The Embodiment of Greed

Originates From: The Blackest Knight Storyline
Source of Power: Strength Powered By Greed and Ego

In the Black Knights comic book saga, hordes of the grim reapers known as the Black Lanterns invaded Earth with the intention of taking over completely. The Lantern Corps recognized they needed an equally formidable force to confront this undying menace. Ganthet ordered members of the Corps to locate the most powerful potential warriors for each ring, tasking them with helping fight off this threat. Alexander Luthor was one of those chosen.

Just like a Green Lantern’s ring derives its power from willpower, an Orange Lantern’s power source is greed. Among all the characters in the DC Universe, there is arguably none more driven by ego and avarice than Lex Luthor. Given this, it was only fitting that he became the wielder of such a ring, as his actions often revolve around accumulating wealth and resources to serve his self-centered ambitions.

Although he was the most fitting choice for temporary recruitment, in hindsight, the Lantern Corps would come to rue this decision. The very trait that made him a strong candidate – his greed – ultimately proved detrimental. He developed an insatiable desire to own all the rings, seizing Scarecrow’s Yellow Lanring out of fear and launching a destructive quest to acquire more rings. By the time his actions were confronted, an entire force of lantern bearers had to unite to challenge him.

1 God of Apokolips

Omega Darkseid Luthor

Originates From: The Darkseid War Storyline
Source of Power: Omega Energy

A formidable DC antagonist frequently clashing with the Justice League is Darkseid, known for his daunting physique and destructive Omega Beams. He’s one of the most challenging enemies to face. If cunning and malevolent mastermind Lex Luthor were to amass power similar to his, it would undoubtedly lead to catastrophe.

During the Darkseid War storyline, Darkseid met his demise and along with him, the Omega Energy he possessed. This potent energy needed to be transferred to a new host, and unfortunately for many, that choice fell on Lex Luthor. This lofty power was bestowed upon him by a faction from Planet Apokolips who were seeking a new leader. They believed a man from Metropolis would lead their world of Apokolips towards prosperity. However, at that time, Superman had turned against them, becoming more of an antagonist and leaving the planet.

Indeed, Lex Luthor seized this chance, positioning himself as the genuine embodiment of the Metropolis prophecy’s man. Eager to lead them, he aimed to attain the divine stature he had long aspired for.

2024-09-26 15:34